Coach Emma Coates Departs England U23 Role to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has left her position leading the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a new environment.”
Coaching Pedigree
During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” added Cossington.
The Task Ahead
Bay FC experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their new challenge. They have played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.
Pathway Success
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of a number of players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for new U23 coaching staff has begun, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the youth national team in the future.
